In view of the current situation in eastern Sabah, Malaysia, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today (March 5) issued an Amber Outbound Travel Alert (OTA) for Malaysia.

A Government spokesperson said, "Those who plan to visit Malaysia or are already there should monitor the situation, exercise caution and attend to personal safety. Residents are also advised to avoid travelling to Lahad Datu, Kunak and Semporna in eastern Sabah."

The Security Bureau will closely monitor the situation. Any update will be issued through the media and the Bureau's OTA webpage (www.sb.gov.hk/eng/ota).

Residents who need assistance while outside Hong Kong may call the 24-hour hotline of the Assistance to Hong Kong Residents Unit of the Immigration Department at (852)1868.